The fresh summer early evening air and a warm round of applause from the thousands seated on the lawn welcomed the four piece jazz combo. Piano, stand up bass, drum kit and alto sax struck the first chord setting the stage for a melody familiar to fans of Gregory Porter's newest album "Be Good". The chord changes of the lead track "Painted on Canvas" cleared room in the festival for the richest of voices to begin its night.
Porter bounded up the stairs, tripping a bit on the top step before reaching center stage. It would be his only trip up of the night. His rich melodic voice instantly blended with the groove set by his instrumentalists. He followed the melody made familiar on the recording, but in the spirit of the festival found tasty new directions to take it. "We are like children, painted on canvas, picking up shades as we go...".
This artist has the size of a man who played college football. His voice can be just as big, but only when his command allows it to elevate. The dynamic build up in "... Canvas" begins with a warmth that puts a smile on your face. As he the sound of the group and Porter's vibrato swells "Can I get some green with some blues??" it's enough to deliver a chill to the listener. Then sharply the softness returns.
Gregory Porter was born an L.A. guy who loved to listen to Nat King Cole. He had early exposure to the recording sessions of some jazz greats. He picked up a Tony nomination on Broadway. Yet, now he is two albums deep into a song writing soloist career that is winning rich praise.
On stage he has presence. His quirky sense of fashion and long arms make him a memorable sight. His tender personality was apparent backstage. But, when he feels that music coming from his toes he can't help but move, bend and bounce. Sharp claps accent the off beat and add a percussive stamp of approval of his bandmates on stage.
Take a moment to search Gregory Porter on your Storify account. And then imagine it live, in person on a sunny summer's evening. A great performance in the flesh should always be better than the record. And it sure was tonight.
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